Illinois State Police
News Release

National Holiday Lifesaver Weekend

Press Release Date:
December 15, 1999
|| Archived October 7, 2002

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois State Police (ISP) announced today its involvement in a nationwide effort to raise awareness and increase enforcement over the upcoming weekend. By participating in National Holiday Lifesaver Weekend, December 17-19, the ISP joins hundreds of other police agencies across the country in emphasizing traffic safety during a key weekend of the holiday season.

In addition, Governor George Ryan has proclaimed December "Drunk and Drugged Driving (3-D) Prevention Month" in Illinois. In observance of 3-D month, Illinois State Police officers have attached red ribbons to their squad car antennas in support of MADD’s (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) "Tie One on for Safety" campaign.

Illinois State Police Director Sam W. Nolen is asking members of the public to join troopers in "Lights on For Life" Day, December 17, by driving with their headlights on throughout the day. "Out of respect for those who have lost their lives in alcohol-related crashes, we are asking motorists to join us by turning their ‘lights on for life’. This is an excellent way to show support for anti-impaired driving efforts," Nolen said.

According to Nolen, last year 142 persons lost their lives on Illinois roadways during the month of December -- 50 of these deaths were alcohol-related. In an effort to reduce traffic crashes and fatalities, police and sheriffs’ departments across the country and in Illinois will be out in force with saturation patrols, roadside safety checks, and public awareness efforts to stop impaired driving, speeding, and aggressive driving.

"The holidays can be magic or they can be tragic," Nolen observed. "Driving impaired is one of the most direct routes to tragedy. We ask motorists to stay safe and sober, and join us in our efforts to prevent the senseless tragedies that can come with drinking and driving," he concluded.